HB183 Alabama 2014 Session

Updated Feb 24, 2026

Summary

Primary Sponsor: James E. Buskey
Democrat
Session: Regular Session 2014
Title: Mobile Bay, bar pilots, fees, Sec. 33-4-48 am'd.
Summary: HB183 would require annual cost-of-living adjustments to Mobile Bay bar pilot fees starting in 2017 and authorize the Pilotage Commission to adjust other pilotage fees accordingly.
What This Bill Does
It amends Section 33-4-48 to require a yearly cost-of-living adjustment to the pilot fees for Mobile Bay or Harbor, beginning January 1, 2017, and in subsequent years. The State Pilotage Commission would determine the exact increases at the first quarterly meeting after official CPI changes are released, using the Consumer Price Index from the previous year. The Commission could also adjust tariff rates beyond CPI increases if requested by pilots. The existing fee structure based on vessel draft and tonnage stays in place, including minimum fees, plus the ability to set or adjust special service fees (like docking, undocking, drydock work, turning, shifting, anchorage, standby, and delayed sailing).

Who It Affects
Ship owners, operators, and agents who pay pilot fees for vessels entering or leaving Mobile Bay or Harbor; their charges would rise annually with the COLA and possible extra adjustments.
State Pilotage Commission and pilots, who would gain authority to set and implement annual tariff changes and additional service fees.

Key Provisions
Annual cost-of-living adjustment to Mobile Bay bar pilot fees starting 2017, based on CPI increases with adjustments determined at the first quarterly meeting after CPI data release.
Tariff increases may exceed CPI increases if requested by pilots.
Tariff rates are based on vessel draft and tonnage with minimums: draft-based fee minimum of 15 feet; tonnage-based fee minimum of 6,500 maximum registered gross tons.
The Commission can set fees for special services (docking/undocking, going on/off drydock, turning, shifting, anchorage and standby, delayed sailing).
Effective immediately after passage and governor's approval (or as otherwise provided by law).

AI-generated summary using openai/gpt-5-nano on Feb 24, 2026. May contain errors — refer to the official bill text for accuracy.
Subjects: Mobile